RecyClass approves Constantia Flexibles ‘EcoLam SR tube’ technology
15 Sep 2022
Results of independent laboratory testing demonstrate that the ‘EcoLam SR tube’ developed by Constantia Flexibles is fully compatible with the European rigid high-density polyethylene (HDPE) recycling stream. The sorting behaviour and recycling compatibility were assessed via the RecyClass Sorting Evaluation Protocol for Plastic Packaging[1] and the RecyClass Evaluation Protocol for HDPE containers[2], respectively.
The ’EcoLam SR tube’ is a laminated, metallised HDPE tube using EcoLamHighPlus[3] technology, containing EVOH and no laminating adhesives. The tube was tested unprinted and without a cap. The EcoLam SR tube is mainly suitable for personal care applications, especially in oral care and cosmetics.
Following the RecyClass Sorting Evaluation Protocol, CIRCPACK evaluated the sorting behaviour of this technology, as an important element of the overall compatibility. Specific recommendations of the sorting trials can be found in EcoLam SR tube Approval Letter[4].
Recycling compatibility was later evaluated at the Institut für Kunststofftechnologie und -recycling (IKTR). According to the laboratory results, ‘EcoLam SR tube’ conforms to the current European coloured HDPE container recycling stream, when respecting the specific conditions of the approval[5]. These tests demonstrated that plastic generated by the recycling process can be used back in closed-loop applications, such as HDPE blow-moulded bottles with up to 25% of this material.
The testing of these technologies illustrates the effort of the plastic industry in designing high performance HDPE barrier tubes that are compatible with their dedicated recycling streams.
[1] RecyClass Sorting Evaluation Protocol for Plastic Packaging
[2] RecyClass Evaluation Protocol for HDPE containers
[3] EcoLamHighPlus was previously tested and approved as compatible with recycling. More information can be found in the Technology Approval Letter.
[4] Idem
[5] For the full conditions please read the technology Approval Letter.
RecyClass Recyclability Approvals
RecyClass issues two types of Recyclability Approvals – Technology Approvals and Product Approvals. These are issued upon conducted testing in accordance with one of the established Recyclability Evaluation Protocols. Testing results are incorporated in the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines and the Online Tool. The full list of approved Technologies and Products can be found on the RecyClass website.
About RecyClass
RecyClass is a non-profit, cross-industry initiative advancing recyclability, bringing transparency to the origin of plastic waste and establishing a harmonized approach toward recycled plastic calculation & traceability in Europe. RecyClass develops Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing methods for innovative plastic packaging materials which serve as the base for the Design for Recycling Guidelines and the RecyClass Online Tool. RecyClass established Recyclability Certifications for plastic packaging, Recycling Process Certification and Recycled Plastics Traceability Certification for plastic products.
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Contact : Jean-Emile.Potaufeux@plasticsrecyclers.eu, www.recyclass.eu
About Constantia Flexibles
Constantia Flexibles is the world’s third-largest producer of flexible packaging. Based on the guiding principle of ‘People, Passion, Packaging’, some 8,750 employees manufacture tailor-made packaging solutions at 38 sites in 16 countries. Many international companies and local market leaders from the consumer and pharma industries choose the sustainable and innovative products. Sustainability is a top priority at Constantia Flexibles: the company was rated Level A by Climate Change Leadership (CDP) in 2021 and Gold by EcoVadis in 2022. www.cflex.com